Device for use with floor drains

ABSTRACT

In a floor drain assembly of the type including a floor drain having a collar surrounding a drainage opening installed in a recess in a floor, an improvement is provided. The improvement includes a skirt extending about the collar and secured to the collar by a fastener extending through the skirt and into the collar but not into the floor. The skirt defines an opening sized to receive a treatment material therein. A lid is configured for selectively engaging with the opening for allowing selective placement of treatment material in an area beneath the skirt.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation application of U.S. Utilityapplication Ser. No. 13/778,177 filed on Feb. 27, 2013, which claimspriority to U.S. Utility application Ser. No. 13/419,402 filed on Mar.13, 2012, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No.61/477,187 filed on Apr. 20, 2011, U.S. Provisional Application No.61/510,540 filed on Jul. 22, 2011, and U.S. Provisional Application No.61/544,037 filed on Oct. 6, 2011, the entire contents of all of whichare hereby incorporated by reference herein. The following applicationsare directed towards similar subject matter: U.S. Utility applicationSer. No. 13/419,326 filed Mar. 13, 2012, U.S. Utility application Ser.No. 13/419,339 filed Mar. 13, 2012, U.S. Utility application Ser. No.13/419,342 filed Mar. 13, 2012, and U.S. Utility application Ser. No.13/452,090 filed Apr. 20, 2012, the entire contents of which are herebyincorporated by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The presently disclosed subject matter is directed towards a device, andmore particularly, towards a device for being received within a floordrain and containing a liquid-soluble treatment material.

BACKGROUND

Many public facilities have floor drains that suffer from odor andclogging related problems in which odors emanate from the collection ofwaste, grease, and other elements being trapped in the floor drain. Thisproblem is especially prevalent in kitchens and public restrooms, bothresidential and commercial. As facilities are cleaned, dirt, grime, andbacteria collect in the floor drain trap, commonly referred to as ap-trap because of the shape of the piping connected therewith. The waterin the p-trap quickly becomes dirty and may emanate a foul odor into theroom and adjacent areas.

Currently, the prevailing solution to this problem is the use ofsanitizing liquids, deodorants, or degreasers being poured down thedrain. These liquids are typically poured down the floor drain on aregular basis. However, the solution is quickly washed down the drainand out of the p-trap with subsequent cleanings. Additionally, thesanitizing liquid does not provide continuous aroma to the room. Thebuildup of organic material and grease requires pumping of grease out ofthe trap or other holding container.

Other common solutions include the use of wall-mounted, time-releasedeodorizer sprayers. These devices systematically release aroma into theroom to mask odors at predetermined time intervals. These systems alsohave the disadvantage of failing to continuously release aroma into theroom. While these devices mask foul odors immediately followingdischarge, the active aromatic agents quickly disperse into the room,failing to effectively mask or eliminate the odors.

Yet other devices attempt to place deodorizing and sanitizing agentsinside the drain. These devices typically address either sink drains orfloor drains. Most of these devices require special drain modificationsto hold the device, increasing expense to the owner and making themimpractical for contractor installation. These devices may also have thetendency to aggravate drain problems by catching dirty water around thedevice.

These devices also suffer from the disadvantage that they do not addressany insect or other pest-related issues.

Accordingly, there remains a need for a device that addresses thevarious disadvantages associated with previous devices.

SUMMARY

According to one or more embodiments, a device configured for beingreceived within a floor drain is provided. The device includes a basketassembly containing a liquid-soluble treatment material therein. A draincover defines an opening that receives the basket assembly. A basketassembly lid defines at least one aperture for allowing flow of liquidinto the basket assembly. The basket assembly includes a flange forcooperatively engaging a recess defined in the drain cover to therebyengage the lid with the drain cover.

According to one or more embodiments, a device configured for beingreceived within a floor drain cover is provided. The device includes abasket assembly containing a liquid-soluble treatment material thereinand a basket assembly lid defining at least one aperture for allowingflow of liquid into the basket assembly. The basket assembly includes aflange for cooperatively engaging a recess defined in the drain cover tothereby engage the lid with the drain cover.

According to one or more embodiments, a device configured for beingreceived within a floor drain is provided. The device includes a basketassembly containing a liquid-soluble treatment material therein and abasket assembly lid fixedly secured to the basket assembly and definingat least one aperture for allowing flow of liquid into the basketassembly. A floor drain cover defines an opening that receives thebasket assembly. The basket lid is configured for selective engagementwith the drain cover to thereby engage the basket assembly with thedrain cover.

According to one or more embodiments, a device is provided. The deviceincludes a basket assembly configured for containing a liquid-solubletreatment material therein and a skirt for covering the perimeter of afloor drain and defining an opening therein for receivably engaging thebasket assembly.

According to one or more embodiments, the basket assembly furtherdefines a shoulder configured for engaging with a cooperative grooveformed in the skirt.

According to one or more embodiments, the basket assembly furtherdefines an arm configured for engaging with a cooperative groove formedin the skirt.

According to one or more embodiments, the basket assembly furtherdefines a support to which the liquid-soluble treatment material iscarried by.

According to one or more embodiments, the basket assembly defines aplurality of openings on a top portion thereof for allowing flow-throughof liquid.

According to one or more embodiments, the skirt defines a plurality ofopenings for allowing flow-through of liquid.

According to one or more embodiments, the skirt defines a ledge uponwhich the basket assembly rests when selectively engaged therewith.

According to one or more embodiments, the device includes theliquid-soluble treatment material carried within the basket assembly.The liquid-soluble treatment material is configured as one of apesticide, insecticide, fragrance, and a degreaser.

According to one or more embodiments, the basket assembly defines atleast two vessels. Each vessel is configured for containing one of theliquid-soluble treatment materials.

According to one or more embodiments, the basket assembly defines aplurality of openings on a top portion thereof for allowing flow-throughof liquid and the skirt defines a plurality of openings for allowingflow-through of liquid. The basket assembly and the skirt cooperativelyforming a floor drain cover.

According to one or more embodiments, the basket assembly furtherdefines a lid for allowing access to the liquid-soluble material.

According to one or more embodiments, the lid is hingedly connected to abase of the lid.

According to one or more embodiments, the liquid-soluble treatmentmaterial is carried by a support that is configured for engaging withthe lid.

According to one or more embodiments, the device includes an electricfan at a bottom portion of the basket assembly for providing airflowthrough the basket assembly.

According to one or more embodiments, a device is provided. The deiceincludes a skirt for covering the perimeter of a floor drain anddefining a basket assembly configured for being received in the floordrain opening and a lid configured for selectively engaging a topportion of the basket assembly to thereby form an enclosure forcontaining a liquid-soluble treatment material therein.

According to one or more embodiments, the lid defines a plurality ofopenings on a top portion thereof for allowing flow-through of liquid.

According to one or more embodiments, the skirt defines a plurality ofopenings for allowing flow-through of liquid.

According to one or more embodiments, the lid and the skirt define aplurality of openings for allowing flow-through of liquid, the skirt andthe lid cooperatively forming a drain cover.

According to one or more embodiments, a basket assembly configured forcontaining a liquid-soluble treatment material therein is provided. Thebasket assembly includes a fastener configured for engaging the basketassembly with an opening defined in a skirt for covering the perimeterof a floor drain. The opening is generally concentric with the floordrain opening.

According to one or more embodiments, the liquid-soluble treatmentmaterial is one of a pesticide, insecticide, fragrance, and a degreaser

According to one or more embodiments, a tool for use with a basketassembly is provided. The basket assembly is of the type configured forbeing receivably engaged with an opening defined in a drain cover skirtfor covering the perimeter of a floor drain. The tool is configured forengaging the basket assembly and removing the basket assembly from thedrain cover skirt upon force input from a user.

According to one or more embodiments, the basket assembly defines an armconfigured for engaging with a cooperative groove formed in the skirt.The arm has a first position in which the arm is engaged with the grooveof the skirt thereby securing the basket into the floor drain skirt anda second position in which the arm is bent away from the groove to allowremoval of the basket assembly.

According to one or more embodiments, the tool includes shouldersconfigured for imparting movement to the arm into the second position toallow removal of the basket assembly.

According to one or more embodiments, the tool includes a hook memberthat is configured for being received in an opening of the basketassembly and engaging therewith for removing the basket assembly fromthe drain cover skirt upon force input from the user.

According to one or more embodiments, the tool includes one or moreopenings for receiving the user's fingers.

According to one or more embodiments, the tool further defines a planarnesting surface configured for engaging with a top portion of the basketassembly.

According to one or more embodiments, the tool further defines a planarnesting surface and the shoulders extend from the nesting surface.

According to one or more embodiments, the tool further defines a planarnesting surface and the hook member extends from the nesting surface.

According to one or more embodiments, a method for installation andremoval of a basket assembly from a floor drain cover skirt is provided.The method includes using a tool defining one or more shouldersconfigured for disengaging the basket assembly, extending a portion ofthe tool into the basket assembly to disengage the basket assembly, andapplying forces to the tool to impart movement of the basket assemblyrelative to the floor drain.

According to one or more embodiments, the basket assembly is of the typeconfigured for being receivably engaged with an opening defined in adrain cover skirt for covering the perimeter of the floor drain.

According to one or more embodiments, the basket assembly defines an armconfigured for engaging with a cooperative groove formed in the skirt.The arm has a first position in which the arm is engaged with the grooveof the skirt thereby securing the basket into the floor drain skirt anda second position in which the arm is bent away from the groove to allowremoval of the basket assembly.

According to one or more embodiments, the tool includes a hook memberthat is configured for being received in an opening of the basketassembly and engaging therewith for removing the basket assembly fromthe drain cover skirt upon force input from the user.

According to one or more embodiments, a kit is provided. The kitincludes a basket assembly configured for containing a liquid-solubletreatment material therein and being configured to be received in anopening defined in a skirt for covering the perimeter of a floor drain,and a tool for use with the basket assembly. The tool is configured forengaging the basket assembly and removing the basket assembly from thedrain cover skirt upon input from the user.

According to one or more embodiments, the basket assembly defines an armconfigured for engaging with a cooperative groove formed in the skirt.The arm has a first position in which the arm is engaged with the grooveof the skirt thereby securing the basket into the floor drain skirt anda second position in which the arm is bent away from the groove to allowremoval of the basket assembly.

According to one or more embodiments, the tool includes shouldersconfigured for imparting movement to the arm into the second position toallow removal of the basket assembly.

According to one or more embodiments, the tool includes a hook memberthat is configured for being received in an opening of the basketassembly and engaging therewith for removing the basket assembly fromthe drain cover skirt.

According to one or more embodiments, the tool includes one or moreopenings for receiving a user's fingers.

According to one or more embodiments, the tool further defines a planarnesting surface configured for engaging with a top portion of the basketassembly.

According to one or more embodiments, the tool further defines a planarnesting surface and the shoulders extend from the nesting surface.

According to one or more embodiments, the tool further defines a planarnesting surface and the hook member extends from the nesting surface.

According to one or more embodiments, a cover for a drain assembly isprovided. The cover includes a skirt material defining a plurality ofopenings therein for allowing flowthrough of liquid and one or morefasteners extending from the skirt material and configured for beingreceived within an opening defined in the drain assembly.

According to one or more embodiments, the one or more fasteners are eachpegs extending from the first skirt material.

According to one or more embodiments, the one or more pegs include oneor more detents for being received in cooperatively defined one or moreopenings of a floor drain skirt in the drain assembly.

According to one or more embodiments, the cover is formed from aninjection molding process.

According to one or more embodiments, the injection molding processincludes injecting a treatment material into the cover.

According to one or more embodiments, the cover is provided with anaromatic material.

According to one or more embodiments, the fastener is configured forextending into a floor drain skirt that is engaged with the drainassembly.

According to one or more embodiments, a drain cover assembly for a floordrain assembly is provided. The drain cover assembly includes a draincover skirt configured for being engaged with the floor drain, a skirtmaterial defining a plurality of openings therein for allowingflowthrough of liquid, and one or more fasteners extending from thefirst skirt material and configured for being engagably received by oneof the drain assembly and the drain cover skirt.

According to one or more embodiments, the one or more fasteners are eachpegs extending from the first skirt material.

According to one or more embodiments, the one or more pegs include oneor more detents for being received in cooperatively defined one or moreopenings of a skirt in the drain assembly.

According to one or more embodiments, the skirt material is formed froman injection molding process.

According to one or more embodiments, the injection molding processincludes injecting an aromatic material into the skirt material.

According to one or more embodiments, the injection molding processincludes injecting a treatment material into the skirt material.

According to one or more embodiments, the skirt material is providedwith an aromatic material.

According to one or more embodiments, the fastener is configured forextending into the floor drain skirt that is engaged with the drainassembly.

According to one or more embodiments, a cover for a floor drain isprovided. The cover includes a first skirt material defining a cutouttherein. The skirt material is configured for covering the perimeter ofthe floor drain. A second skirt material for being received in thecutout and is configured for covering the opening of the floor drain.The second skirt material further defines an opening therein forreceivably engaging a basket assembly.

According to one or more embodiments, the cover is formed from aninjection molding process.

According to one or more embodiments, the injection molding processincludes injecting an aromatic material into the cover.

According to one or more embodiments, the cover is provided with atreatment material.

According to one or more embodiments, the first skirt material defines agenerally square shaped panel for engaging with the floor drain.

According to one or more embodiments, the first skirt material defines aplurality of openings therein for allowing flowthrough of liquids.

According to one or more embodiments, the second skirt material definesa plurality of openings therein for allowing flowthrough of liquids.

According to one or more embodiments, the second skirt material definesa groove that is configured for receiving a snap arm of the basketassembly.

According to one or more embodiments, the second skirt material definesa ledge upon which the basket assembly rests when selectively engagedtherewith.

According to one or more embodiments, a kit for use with a floor drainassembly is provided. The kit includes a cover for a floor drain. Thecover includes a first skirt material defining a cutout therein. Theskirt material is configured for covering the perimeter of the floordrain. A second skirt material for being received in the cutout andbeing configured for covering the opening of the floor drain isprovided. The second skirt material further defines an opening thereinfor receivably engaging a basket assembly. A basket assembly configuredfor containing a liquid-soluble treatment material therein and beingconfigured to be received in the opening defined in the second skirtmaterial is provided.

According to one or more embodiments, the basket assembly furtherdefines a shoulder configured for engaging with a cooperative grooveformed in the skirt.

According to one or more embodiments, the basket assembly furtherdefines an arm configured for engaging with a cooperative groove formedin the skirt.

According to one or more embodiments, the basket assembly furtherdefines a support to which the liquid-soluble treatment material iscarried by.

According to one or more embodiments, the basket assembly defines aplurality of openings on a top portion thereof for allowing flow-throughof liquid.

According to one or more embodiments, the first skirt material defines aplurality of openings for allowing flow-through of liquid.

According to one or more embodiments, the second skirt material definesa ledge upon which the basket assembly rests when selectively engagedtherewith.

According to one or more embodiments, the kit further includesliquid-soluble material carried within the basket assembly. Theliquid-soluble material is configured as one of a pesticide,insecticide, fragrance, and a degreaser.

This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in asimplified form that are further described below in the DetailedDescription. This Summary is not intended to identify key features oressential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended tobe used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter. Further, theclaimed subject matter is not limited to implementations that solve anyor all disadvantages noted in any part of this disclosure.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description ofpreferred embodiments, is better understood when read in conjunctionwith the appended drawings. For the purposes of illustration, there isshown in the drawings exemplary embodiments; however, the presentlydisclosed subject matter is not limited to the specific methods andinstrumentalities disclosed. In the drawings:

FIG. 1 is a side view of a device for use with a drain and beinginstalled therewith according to one or more embodiments disclosedherein;

FIG. 2 is a side view of a device for use with a drain according to oneor more embodiments disclosed herein;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a device for use with a drain accordingto one or more embodiments disclosed herein;

FIG. 4 is a top view of a device for use with a drain according to oneor more embodiments disclosed herein;

FIG. 5 is a side view of a device for use with a drain in which a basketassembly of the device is shown spaced-apart from the drain according toone or more embodiments disclosed herein;

FIG. 6 is a side view of a device for use with a drain according to oneor more embodiments disclosed herein;

FIG. 7 is a side view of a device for use with a drain according to oneor more embodiments disclosed herein;

FIG. 8 is a top view of a device for use with a drain according to oneor more embodiments disclosed herein;

FIG. 9 is an exploded view of a device for use with a drain according toone or more embodiments disclosed herein;

FIG. 10 is an exploded view of a device for use with a drain accordingto one or more embodiments disclosed herein;

FIG. 11 is an exploded view of a device for use with a drain accordingto one or more embodiments disclosed herein;

FIG. 12 is an exploded view of a device for use with a drain accordingto one or more embodiments disclosed herein;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a device for use with a drain accordingto one or more embodiments disclosed herein;

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a device for use with a drain accordingto one or more embodiments disclosed herein;

FIG. 15 is an exploded view of a device for use with a drain accordingto one or more embodiments disclosed herein;

FIG. 16A is a perspective view of a tool for use with a drain, the toolbeing provided for removal of the device according to one or moreembodiments disclosed herein;

FIG. 16B is a perspective view of a tool installed on a device for usewith a drain, the tool being provided for removal of the deviceaccording to one or more embodiments disclosed herein;

FIG. 16C is a perspective cross-sectional view of the tool of FIG. 16Aaccording to one or more embodiments disclosed herein;

FIG. 17 is a side view of a device for use with a drain according to oneor more embodiments disclosed herein;

FIG. 18 is an exploded perspective view of a device for use with a drainaccording to one or more embodiments disclosed herein;

FIG. 19A is an exploded perspective view of a device for use with adrain according to one or more embodiments disclosed herein;

FIG. 19B is a side view of a device for use with a drain according toone or more embodiments disclosed herein; and

FIG. 19C is a side view of a device installed about a drain according toone or more embodiments disclosed herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The presently disclosed subject matter now will be described more fullyhereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some,but not all embodiments are shown. Indeed, this invention may beembodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limitedto the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments areprovided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legalrequirements. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout.

A device for use with a drain is illustrated in FIGS. 1 through 4 and isgenerally designated 10. The device 10 is configured for being receivedwithin a floor drain 1. The device includes a basket assembly 12containing a treatment material 14 therein. As used herein, basketassembly may refer to any assembly, device, or structure capable ofcarrying or containing a treatment material. The treatment material 14may be a generally solid or liquid material. Additionally, the treatmentmaterial 14 may be a liquid-soluble material configured to releasearomatic treatment when dissolved or dissipated with liquid. As usedherein, liquid-soluble includes any material in which the passage-by orpass-through of liquid causes some material change or reaction to occur.For example, liquid-soluble may refer to a material that is at leastliquid-dispersible. Furthermore, liquid-soluble may also describe thecondition in which the liquid that passes by or through the aromaticmaterial carries the dissolved liquid-soluble material. The treatmentmaterial 14 may contain anti-bacterial or other sanitizingcharacteristics. The treatment material 14 may be a bacterial or enzymetreatment that is configured for destroying odor-causing microorganismsand the like that may be found in drains. The treatment material 14 mayinclude a bioactive agent that produces enzymes that digest collectedgrease and oil. The treatment material 14 may include materials that areinsecticidal in nature and repel and kill insects. In other embodiments,the basket assembly 12 may contain some medium that may or may not beliquid-soluble, including, for example, a sponge soaked in anappropriate chemical. In other embodiments, the treatment material 14may be a liquid-soluble treatment material configured to emit a desiredaroma when liquid flows about the material. The basket assembly 12 mayinclude a plurality of openings 13, such as, for example the slots shownthroughout the drawings. The basket assembly 12 may be generallyconcentric with the drain opening 3 when installed thereon. Thetreatment material 14 is configured such that when liquid, which may beliquid waste-water, grease, oil, or any other liquid that is poured downa drain, passes into the openings 13 and through the treatment material14, the treatment material 14 releases an aroma to mask any odoremanating from the drain 1.

The device 10 includes a drain cover skirt 16. The drain cover skirt 16may define an opening 20 that receives and carries the basket assembly12. In this manner, the drain cover skirt 16 and basket assembly 12 maybe integrally formed. The drain cover skirt 16 may further define aplurality of openings 18 that allow flow of liquid therethrough. Abasket assembly lid 22 is provided for engaging with the opening 20. Thebasket assembly lid 22 defines at least one aperture 24 for allowingflow of liquid into the basket assembly 12. The basket assembly 12 mayinclude a flange 26 for cooperatively engaging a recess 30 that isdefined in the drain cover skirt 16 to thereby engage the lid 22 withthe drain cover skirt 16.

The basket assembly lid 22 may be further configured for engagement withthe drain cover skirt 16 by other appropriate manners. For example, ahook 32 carried by the drain cover skirt 16 may be further configuredfor engaging the flange 26 and extending into a recess 33 defined in thelid 22. The hook 32 may be configured for rotatable movement orpivotable movement about the drain cover skirt 16 such that the hook 32can be selectively engaged therewith. The hook 32 may be rotated orpivoted out of the way by inserting an elongate object such as ascrewdriver or blade into the gap defined between the hook 32 and basketlid 22 and pressing the hook 32 into an unobstructed position.

Installation of the device 10 is accomplished by fastening the draincover skirt 16 to a supporting floor surface 2. The drain 1 should bealigned with the opening 20 of the drain cover skirt 16 such that thebasket assembly 12 may be received within the drain 1. The drain coverskirt 16 may be fastened to the supporting floor surface 2 by the use ofa threaded fastener, such as a screw, though in other embodiments, anyappropriate fastener may be used. The treatment material 14 is thenplaced into the basket assembly 12. The treatment material 14 may occupysubstantially all or only a portion of the basket assembly 12 wheninstalled. The lid 22 is then engaged with the drain cover skirt 16. Inthe one or more embodiments illustrated in FIG. 1, this is accomplishedby engaging the flange 26 with the recess 30. In the one or moreembodiments of FIG. 4, this may include rotating or pivoting the hook 32until the flange 26 is in engagement therewith. To replace a spenttreatment material 14, the lid 22 is disengaged from the drain coverskirt 16, the treatment material 14 is replaced, and the lid 22 is thenre-engaged with the drain cover skirt 16.

A device according to one or more embodiments is illustrated in FIGS. 5through 8 and is generally designated 110. The device 110 is similar inmany respects to the device 10 illustrated in FIGS. 1 through 4 andshares many of the same aspects. The device is configured for beingreceived within a floor drain 1.

The device 110 also includes a drain cover skirt 116. The drain coverskirt 116 may define an opening 120 that receives a basket assembly 112.The drain cover skirt 116 may further define a plurality of openings 118that allow flow of liquid therethrough. The basket assembly 112 maycontain treatment material 14 therein. Alternatively, any desiredmaterial may be placed in the basket assembly 112. The basket assembly112 may include a plurality of openings 113, such as, for example, theslots shown throughout the drawings. The plurality of openings 113 allowliquid to, flow there-through and into the drain 1. A basket assemblylid 122 is provided for engaging with the opening 120 and is carried bythe basket assembly 112. The basket assembly lid 122 may define at leastone aperture 124 for allowing flow of liquid into the basket assembly112. The basket assembly 112 may include a flange 126 for cooperativelyengaging a recess 130 that is defined in the drain cover skirt 116 tothereby engage the lid 122 and the basket assembly 112 with the draincover skirt 116.

The one or more embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 5 through 8 may differfrom the one or more embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 1 through 4 inthat the basket assembly 112 may be replaced when the treatment materialor other material contained therein needs replacing.

The basket assembly 122 may be further configured for engagement withthe drain cover skirt 116 by other appropriate manners. For example, ahook 132 carried by the drain cover skirt 116 may be further configuredfor engaging the flange 126 and extending into a recess 133 defined inthe lid 122. The hook 132 may be configured for rotatable movement orpivotable movement about the drain cover skirt 116 such that the hook132 can be selectively engaged. The hook 132 may be rotated or pivotedout of the way by inserting an elongate object such as a screwdriver orblade into the gap defined between the hook 132 and basket lid 122 andpressing the hook 132 into an unobstructed position.

Installation of the device 110 is accomplished by fastening the draincover skirt 116 to a supporting floor surface 2 as illustrated in FIG.5. The drain 1 should be aligned with the opening 120 of the drain coverskirt 116 such that the basket assembly 112 may be received within thedrain 1. The drain cover skirt 116 may be fastened to the supportingfloor surface 2 by the use of a threaded fastener, such as a screw,though in other embodiments, any appropriate fastener may be used. Thetreatment material may occupy substantially all or only a portion of thebasket assembly 112 when installed. The basket assembly 112 is thenlowered into the drain 1 until the lid 122 is in general alignment withthe drain cover skirt 116. The lid 122 is then engaged with the draincover skirt 116 by engaging the flange 126 of the lid 122 with therecess 130 of the cover skirt 116 thereby securing the basket assembly112 into the drain 1. This may be accomplished by bending or flexing ofthe basket 122 until the flange 126 can be engaged in the recess 1230.In the one or more embodiments illustrated in FIG. 8, this may includerotating or pivoting the hook 132 until the flange 126 is in engagementtherewith.

The basket assemblies 12 and 112 are shown as having a generallycylindrical or frusto-conical shape, though in one or more embodiments,may have a specially configured shape. In this manner, only similarlyshaped treatment material could be placed in the basket assemblies 12and 112. For example, the basket assemblies 12 and 112 could have an “A”or “V” shape. In this example, the treatment material would need to havea corresponding “A” or “V” shape in order to be placed into the basketassemblies 12 and 112. This may be important to ensure that proper andauthorized treatment materials are utilized with the devices disclosedherein.

One or more embodiments sharing many features and elements as the one ormore embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 1 through 8 are illustrated inFIGS. 9 through 15. As illustrated in FIG. 9, the device 210 may includean assembly 212 containing a first material 214 and a second material215 that is adhered thereto. In one or more embodiments, the firstmaterial 214 may be an aromatic material and the second material 215 maybe a pesticide material. In one or more embodiments, one of the firstmaterial 214 and the second material 215 may also include a degreaserfor aiding in preventing drain clogs. The portion of the assembly 212may include a plurality of catches 217 that are configured for aiding inadhering the first material 214 and the second material 215 thereto. Theassembly 212 is configured for being received within an opening 220 of adrain cover skirt 216. The drain cover skirt 216 may include one or moreapertures 218 that allow flow-through of liquid into the drain assembly1. The drain assembly 1 may include a tab 4 that is configured forreceiving a threaded fastener for securing the drain cover skirt 216thereto. The assembly 212 may include a snap arm assembly 213 that isconfigured for allowing placement of the assembly 213 into the opening220 and engaging a slot 233 formed in the drain cover skirt 216. Removalof the assembly 212 is effectuated by pressing the snap assemblies 213inward so that that the assemblies 213 are no longer in interferencewith the drain cover skirt 216. Subsequent pulling upward on theassembly 212 until assembly 212 is no longer in engagement with thedrain cover skirt 216 completes removal.

As illustrated in FIG. 10, a device 310 may include an assembly 312containing a first material 314 and a second material 315 that isadhered to a portion of the assembly 312. Each of the first material 314and second material 315 may be one of any desired material, including anaromatic material, a pesticide, a degreasing material, an enzymematerial, and the like. One or more catches 317 may be provided forengaging with the first material 314 and second material 315. Theassembly 312 is configured for being received within an opening 320 of adrain cover skirt 316. The drain cover skirt 316 may include one or moreapertures 318 that allow flow-through of liquid into the drain assembly1. The assembly 312 may include a snap arm assembly 313 that isconfigured for allowing placement of the assembly 312 into the opening320 and engaging a slot 333 formed in the drain cover skirt 316. Removalof the assembly 312 is effectuated by pressing the snap assemblies 313inward so that that are no longer in interference with the drain coverskirt 316 and pulling upward on the assembly 312 until the assembly 312is no longer in engagement with the drain cover skirt 316.

As illustrated in FIG. 11, a device 410 for use with a drain 1 isprovided. The device 410 may include an assembly 412 containing a firsttreatment material 414 and a second treatment material 415 that isadhered to a portion of the assembly 412. Each of the first material 414and second material 415 may be one of any desired material, including anaromatic material, a pesticide, a degreasing material, an enzymematerial, and the like. The assembly 412 is configured for beingreceived within an opening 420 of the drain cover skirt 416. The draincover skirt 416 may include one or more apertures 418 that allowflow-through of liquid into the drain assembly 1. The assembly 412 mayinclude a shoulder assembly 421 that is configured for being receivedwithin a slot 422 defined by a panel 423 hingedly connected to the draincover skirt 416. In this manner, removal of the shoulder assembly 421,first material 414, and second material 415 is carried out by rotatingthe panel 423 away from the drain cover skirt 416, and sliding theshoulder assembly 421 away from the slot 422. Installation andreplacement of a spent first material 414 and second material 415 isaccomplished by replacing the shoulder assembly 421 having an unspentfirst material 414 and second material 415 carried thereby with anunspent shoulder assembly.

As illustrated in FIG. 12, a device 510 for use with a drain 1 isprovided. The device 510 may include an assembly 512 containing a firstmaterial 514 and a second material 515 that is adhered to a portion ofthe assembly 512. Each of the first material 515 and second material 515may be one of any desired material, including an aromatic material, apesticide, a degreasing material, enzyme material, and the like. Theassembly 512 is configured for being received within an opening 520 ofthe drain cover skirt 516. The drain cover skirt 516 may include one ormore apertures 518 that allow flow-through of liquid into the drainassembly 1. The assembly 512 may include a shoulder assembly 521 that isconfigured for being received within a slot 522 carried by a panel 523hingedly connected to the drain cover skirt 516. In this manner, removalof the shoulder assembly 521, first material 515, and second material515 is carried out by rotating the panel 523 away from the drain coverskirt 516, and sliding the shoulder assembly 521 away from the slot 522.Installation and replacement of a spent first material 515 and secondmaterial 515 is accomplished by replacing the shoulder assembly 521 witha shoulder assembly 521 having unspent first material 515 and secondmaterial 515. The panel 523 may be configured to close against andengage the cover skirt 516 by any appropriate manner, includingfasteners, detents, and the like.

As illustrated in FIG. 13, a device 610 for use with a floor drain 1 isprovided. The device 610 may include a basket assembly 612 containing amaterial therein. The material 614 may be one of an aromatic material,pesticide material, degreaser material, enzyme material, and the like.The basket assembly 612 is configured for being received within anopening 620 of the drain cover skirt 616. The drain cover skirt 616 mayinclude one or more apertures 618 that allow flow-through of liquid intothe drain assembly 1. The basket assembly 612 may include a snap armassembly 613 that is configured for allowing placement of the basketassembly 612 into the opening 620 and engaging a slot 633 formed in thedrain cover skirt 616. Removal of the basket assembly 612 is effectuatedby pressing the snap assemblies 613 inward so that that are no longer ininterference with the drain cover skirt 616 and pulling upward on thebasket assembly 612 until no longer in engagement with the drain coverskirt 616.

As illustrated in FIG. 14, a device 710 for use with a floor drain 1 isprovided. The device 710 may include a basket assembly 712 containing amaterial therein. The material 714 may be one of an aromatic material,pesticide material, degreaser material, enzyme material, and the like.The basket assembly 712 is configured for being received within anopening 720 of the drain cover skirt 716. The drain cover skirt 716 mayinclude one or more apertures 718 that allow flow-through of liquid intothe drain assembly 1. The basket assembly 712 may include a snap armassembly 713 that is configured for allowing placement of the basketassembly 712 into the opening 720 and engaging a slot 733 formed in thedrain cover skirt 716. Removal of the basket assembly 712 is effectuatedby pressing the snap assemblies 713 inward so that that are no longer ininterference with the drain cover skirt 717 and pulling upward on thebasket assembly 712 until no longer in engagement with the drain coverskirt 716.

As illustrated in FIG. 15, a device 810 for use with a floor drain 1 isprovided. In FIG. 15, the device 810 is shown in a cross-sectional view.The device 810 may include a basket assembly 812 that includes a firstvessel 840 and a second vessel 842. Each of the first vessel 840 andsecond vessel 842 may contain a material therein, and may include thesame or different materials. The material may be one of an aromaticmaterial, pesticide material, degreaser material, enzyme material, andthe like. The basket assembly 812 is configured for being receivedwithin an opening 820 of the drain cover skirt 816. The drain coverskirt 816 may include one or more apertures 818 that allow flow-throughof liquid into the drain assembly 1. The basket assembly 812 may includea snap arm assembly 813 that is configured for allowing placement of thebasket assembly 812 into the opening 820 and engaging a slot 833 formedin the drain cover skirt 816. Removal of the basket assembly 812 iseffectuated by pressing the snap assemblies 813 inward so that that areno longer in interference with the drain cover skirt 816 and pullingupward on the basket assembly 812 until no longer in engagement with thedrain cover skirt 816. A support 844 may be provided that spans acrossthe drain cover opening 820 for providing support to the drain coverskirt 816. In this manner, the support 844 may be provided such that theportion of the basket assembly 812 defined about the intersection of thefirst vessel 840 and the second vessel 842 rests thereon when the basket812 is installed within the drain cover skirt 816.

In one or more embodiments, the one or more devices disclosed herein mayprovide for a lid or base portion of the basket assembly that may beselectively removable such that the treatment material may be replaced.Alternatively, the basket assembly may be integrally formed such thatonly by replacing the basket assembly that has new treatment materialtherein can the basket be “refilled.” In one or more embodiments, thebasket assembly may also take on a two-part assembly such that thebasket assembly may be selectively disassembled at about any of a medialportion thereof.

Additionally, in one or more embodiments, the one or more basketassemblies disclosed herein have been illustrated with a fastenerextending therefrom. In one or more embodiments, the skirt cover maydefine a fastener for engaging with the one or more basket assemblies.

As illustrated in FIGS. 16A, 16B, and 16C, a tool 50 may be provided forengaging with any of the basket assemblies and snap arm assembliesdisclosed herein. For purposes of illustration only, the tool 50 isshown interacting with basket assembly 812 and snap arm assembly 813.The tool 50 is configured for moving the snap arm assembly 813 from afirst position in which the arm assembly 813 is in engagement with thedrain cover skirt 818 and a second position in which the arm assembly813 is free of the drain cover skirt 818. The tool 50 may include one ormore openings 52 that may be provided for receiving an operator'sfingers. Additionally, the tool 50 may include shoulders 54 that areconfigured for extending into the drain cover assembly 818 throughopenings 824 and engaging the snap arm assembly 813 to move the assemblyfrom the first position in which the snap arm assembly 813 is inengagement with the drain cover skirt 818 and a second position in whichthe snap arm assembly 813 is free of the drain cover skirt 818. One ormore hooks 56 may also be provided for extending into and engaging thebasket assembly 812. In this manner, the hooks 56 will pull upward onthe basket assembly 812 when the operator pulls the tool 50 upwards awayfrom the drain. The tool 50 may be sufficiently resilient such that anybending, flexing, or other resiliency necessary for the tool to operateis provided. The tool may define planar nesting surface 58 that isconfigured for nesting with a top portion of the basket assembly 812.The tool 50 may be provided with the one or more devices disclosedherein as a kit.

One or more embodiments of a device for use with a floor drain areillustrated in FIG. 17 in which an apparatus 60 is provided forengagement with the one or more basket assemblies disclosed herein. Forpurposes of illustration only, the basket assembly is illustrated asbasket assembly 112. The apparatus 60 includes a fluid spraying device62, such as a mister. A housing 64 may define a chamber for holdingappropriate fluid to be sprayed, such as an aromatic material. A fan 66may be provided extending from the housing for providing air movement ofthe fluid being sprayed. A battery or other energy storage may beadditionally provided for powering the fan 66.

One or more alternate embodiments of a device for use with a floor drainare illustrated in FIG. 18 in which an adaptor cover skirt 70 having afirst skirt material is provided for use with the one or more basketassemblies disclosed herein. For purposes of illustration only, thebasket assembly is illustrated as basket assembly 612. The adaptor skirt70 is provided for using square shaped drain assemblies as illustratedin FIG. 18 with the one or more basket assemblies disclosed herein. Theadaptor skirt 70 defines a void or cutout 72, which may be a square asillustrated in FIG. 18. The void 72 is configured for receiving a skirtcover plate 74 that defines a second skirt material. The skirt coverplate 74 defines an opening therein for receiving the basket assembly612. The skirt cover plate 74 is configured, along with adaptor skirt70, to have varying sizes in order to accommodate drains of varyingsizes, shapes, and configurations.

One or more devices are illustrated in FIG. 19A, FIG. 19 B, and FIG. 19Cthat are configured for being used with a drain assembly according toone or more embodiments disclosed herein. The one or more devices aregenerally depicted as 910. The device 910 includes an insert cover skirt912 that has one or more fasteners, illustrated as pegs 914 in FIGS.19A, 19B, and 19C, extending therefrom. The one or more pegs 914 mayinclude one or more detents 916 on an end thereof. The insert cover 912may include one or more openings 918 for allowing from through ofliquid. The insert cover 912 is configured for being received by aconventional drain skirt, illustrated as 920. The pegs 914 areconfigured for extending into openings 922 defined in the conventionaldrain skirt such that the insert cover can nestably engage with theconventional drain skirt 920. The detents 916 may be provided formaintaining the insert cover 912 with the drain skirt 920 and may beformed from a resilient material for releasable engagement as desired bythe operator.

In one or more embodiments disclosed herein, the insert cover 912 may befabricated with an injection molding process that includes injectingfragrance, aromatic material, or other desired material into the moldingmaterial. In this manner, the insert cover 912 may have a pleasingfragrance and may be installed as shown in FIG. 19C to mask odorsemanating from the drain assembly 1.

In one or more embodiments disclosed herein, any of the devices hereinmay be fabricated with an injection molding process that includesinjecting fragrance, aromatic material, or other desired material intothe molding material. In this manner, the one or more devices herein mayhave a pleasing fragrance and may be installed to mask odors emanatingfrom the drain assembly 1.

While the embodiments have been described in connection with thepreferred embodiments of the various figures, it is to be understoodthat other similar embodiments may be used or modifications andadditions may be made to the described embodiment for performing thesame function without deviating therefrom. Therefore, the disclosedembodiments should not be limited to any single embodiment, but rathershould be construed in breadth and scope in accordance with the appendedclaims.

What is claimed:
 1. In a floor drain assembly of the type including afloor drain having a collar surrounding a drainage opening installed ina recess in a floor, the improvement comprising: a skirt extending aboutthe collar and secured to the collar by a fastener extending through theskirt and into the collar but not into the floor, the skirt defining anopening sized to receive a treatment material therein; a lid configuredfor selectively engaging with the opening for allowing selectiveplacement of treatment material in an area beneath the skirt.
 2. Theassembly of claim 1, wherein the improvement further comprises a basketfor containing treatment material that is positioned below the opening.3. The assembly of claim 2, wherein the basket is separable from thelid.
 4. The assembly of claim 2, wherein the basket is carried by asupport extending from the skirt into the opening.
 5. The assembly ofclaim 2, wherein the basket is integrally formed with the lid.
 6. Theassembly of claim 2, wherein the basket is not carried by the lid. 7.The assembly of claim 2, wherein the basket defines a plurality ofdrainage apertures for allowing flowthrough of liquid.
 8. The assemblyof claim 2, wherein the lid defines a plurality of drainage aperturesfor allowing flowthrough of liquid.
 9. The assembly of claim 2, whereinthe skirt defines a plurality of drainage apertures for allowingflowthrough of liquid.
 10. The assembly of claim 2, wherein the lid,basket, and skirt each define a plurality of drainage apertures forallowing flowthrough of liquid.
 11. A method of providing treatmentmaterials to a floor drain assembly, the method comprising: providing askirt that is sized to cover a collar of a floor drain, the skirtdefining an opening sized to receive a treatment material therein anddefining a lid that selectively engages with the opening; extending afastener through the skirt and into engagement with the collar;selectively disengaging the lid from the skirt; placing treatmentmaterial in a position beneath the skirt; and selectively engaging thelid with the skirt.